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The Importance of Authorised Parts Information

October 26, 2016 by Jonny White

A quick internet search provides a vast array of spare parts information for all sorts of industries. But the big question is: How can you trust it to be accurate?

The internet revolution has made access to information easier than ever and created a society that expects that access to be free. Being able to get something for nothing seems more important than checking the validity of the information or the legality of getting it.

In regulated sectors such as gas, aerospace or rail, this has implications that can impact hugely on safety.Many manufacturers emphasize that only genuine parts supplied through their own distribution channels or those of authorised partners should be used. This ensures that the safety standards designed into appliances are maintained through responsible servicing and repair.

The same should be true of spare parts information.

Whilst some manufacturers allow free access to parts lists through their own websites, not all do. This increases the likelihood of service engineers obtaining parts information from other sources, which may not be authorised or legitimate.

Putting aside any copyright issues that may arise from reproducing information without authorisation, the validity and currency of data is of real concern. When data is obtained from sources other than the manufacturer, what guarantee is there that it is correct? Whilst there may be a degree of acceptance that free information may have inaccuracies, there is an expectation that any product containing parts and servicing information will be authorised by those manufacturers whose data is included.

Unfortunately, this is not the case.

Having accurate and up-to-date data feeds is vital for correct parts identification. Using a solution like Infomill’s PartsArena or AnswersAnywhere guarantees that all parts and servicing data is supplied directly from or with the authorisation of the manufacturers. Building relationships with manufacturers means that updated data is supplied on a regular basis.

Knowing that data is supplied directly from manufacturers gives service companies the assurance that their engineers will be ordering correct parts. This in turn reduces return visits and other costs associated with incorrectly ordered parts.

In today’s litigious culture, there is no room for incorrect or invalid data and manufacturers take unauthorised use of their data very seriously. Using a product for parts identification that has the backing of the manufacturers is therefore vital when it comes to providing a first class service.